142 BOTANICAL RESULTS OF THE SCOTTISH NATIONAL ANTARCTIC EXPEDITION. 



24 species of bacteria, of which 15 could be identified with well-known forms, the 

 others being apparently new species or varieties. Those from the fish, in particular, 

 appeared to be very polymorphic and indefinite in their characteristics. 



The net result, therefore, so far, seems to be that the alimentary tracts of Antarctic 

 vertebrates contain in all cases relatively few bacteria, and that in a number of instances 

 they appear to be altogether sterile, or, at all events, any bacteria they may contain fail 

 to grow on the ordinary commonly used nutrient media. 



2. BACTERIOLOGY OF SEA WATER. 



These observations included 



(a) Those made on ordinary culture media chiefly gelatine. 



(6) Examinations for the presence of denitrifying bacteria. 



(c) Quantitative examinations. 



(d) Examination of deep-sea samples and bottom muds. 



(e) Examination for the presence of nitrifying bacteria. 



(a) Observations on Bacteriology of Surface Water of Scotia Bay, South Orkneys, 

 taken during the summer months, Dec. 1903, Jan. and Feb. 1904. 



TABLE III. 



